Halloween Health and Safety

What do you do if your child comes home from trick-or-treating lugging their loot bag on the ground behind them? Take it as a bad sign of bellyaches and sugar rushes to come? Avoid sweets insanity with these post-trick-or-treat steps.

• It's scan-dy time! Spread a blanket on the floor and have your child lay out all of the candy they received. Do a quick scan and sort of the types, and have your child count up the total tally (or count with them if they're too young). This is a parent's chance to inspect for any bits that might be dangers or allergy triggers.
• Decide on a few treats for right then on Halloween night. Give your child some time to guiltlessly savour the flavours of the treats they've gathered.
• Remind your child to brush and floss well before heading off to bed and dreams of lollipops, candy corns, and chocolate bars to come.
• The next day, set limits for how much candy can be eaten each day. Include your child in this choice, negotiating together for a sensible daily limit. Withholding treats will only make your child want them more, and learning to make smart choices about food and nutrition can be empowering.
• Set aside a portion of your child's candy as a family treat stash or donate a portion to a charity or local church. This way, you whittle down the candy supply while reinforcing the habit of sharing.